When the Games begin next month, Wharf Green is the place to be with all the action shown live on the Big Screen and an array of free sporting festivities for people to come and try. Some different 20 activities will be on offer between 28 July and 12 August – and cycling will take centre stage on Saturday 11 August.

Everyone is invited to come and watch the cross country mountain biking race on the Big Screen, and even give it a go on the ground with portable mountain bike obstacles. There will also be extra tiered seating to watch the race and an assortment of local clubs to answer questions and find out how to get involved locally. Local cycling clubs are set to compete in static bike races before the games and inspire others to have a go in the afternoon. There will also be a pedal-powered smoothie maker and a four-wheel mountain bike on display for disabled riders to try.

Organiser Anna Cipullo is CTC’s Cycling Development Officer for Swindon. As a keen mountain biker, she jumped at the opportunity to make a big deal of the cross country mountain bike races and showcase what Swindon has to offer for cyclists. She says: “It’s so easy to watch these amazing athletes on the Olympics and forget that ordinary people can still take part in their sport. The 11 August event is not just an opportunity to cheer our British riders on amongst good company, it’s an opportunity to find out how cycling can be a part of your life, even if you don’t think you’re a buddy racer yourself”.

I can’t wait to cheer on the British cycling team in the Olympics and bring some of the excitement to Swindon.

Grant Bayton, Taw Hill resident and British Cycling employee

Nick Lowe, a time triallist from West Swindon, says: “I’m looking forward to the Olympics being in our country; it’s a once in a life time event, and I can’t wait to see the Olympic road racing in Surrey. I want World Champion and British rider, Mark Cavendish, to win and it would be good to see Brit Bradley Wiggins do well in Time Trial too.”

Claire Smith, a female Ironman triathlete from Westlea, is going to see the cross country race live at Hadleigh Park in Essex. She says: “I am looking forward to seeing that race live! I’m also looking forward to the triathlon at Hyde Park as we have the best male and female athletes in the world at the moment.”

Grant Bayton, from Taw Hill, rode for professional Italian outfit, Amore e Vita, and now works with athletes for British Cycling. He said: “Cycling is my biggest passion and a huge part of my life. I’ve raced professionally for a number of years and am now involved in coaching younger cyclists, hopefully champions of the future. I can’t wait to cheer on the British cycling team in the Olympics and bring some of the excitement to Swindon.”

All activities are free of charge at Wharf Green and run from 11am until 3pm. For more information on Live Site activities see www.facebook.com/swindon2012[2] or call Anna on 07717 696672 for more information on the Live cycling display.